Everton fan found guilty of racist abuse

By Ben Cullimore

A 42-year-old Toffees supporter has been charged with racially abusing both Victor Anichebe and QPR's Park Ji-Sung during a Premier League match at Loftus Road last October

An Everton fan has been found guilty of a racially-aggravated public order offence after abusing Victor Anichebe and Park Ji-Sung during the Toffees' Premier League clash with QPR at Loftus Road on October 21.

William Blything, 42, who was at the match with his wife, children and grandson, was reported to Loftus Road stewards by two fellow Toffees supporters who both gave evidence in court.

Blything denied the charge but was found guilty at West London Magistrates' Court and will be sentenced next month, although he is not facing prison time.

"This took place at a football match, and we have a major problem as far as racist behaviour at football is concerned," District Judge Jeremy Coleman said as he passed his verdict.

Speaking outside the court after the verdict was given, however, Blything maintained his innocence and claimed the judgment represented a miscarriage of justice.

"I have never used that kind of language in my life - never have and never will," he told reporters.

"There is something wrong with the justice system as far as I'm concerned."